For your first dishwasher, choose a size that fits your kitchen and a capacity that suits the washing-up you build up between cycles. A 60 cm freestanding model could be right if you have the space and enough washing to justify it, while a 45 cm or tabletop model is worth considering if space is limited. Check the connections, then compare capacity, water and energy use, Eco programme duration and noise levels for the exact model. The figures for the Eco programme do not necessarily describe a quick cycle.
If you’d like to spend less time on this chore, start by considering how much washing-up you can gather between cycles. Then compare the capacity and Eco programme consumption figures with how often you plan to use it.
A 45 cm freestanding dishwasher or a tabletop model could be a good fit when space is tight. Make sure you measure the entire space available, though, and check that the capacity will handle your usual loads too.
If the dishwasher will run near your living area, compare its noise level in dB and its noise rating, as well as its capacity. You’ll find these details on the model’s energy label.
Start with the available space and connections, then check the capacity against your usual loads. To compare how different models perform, ADEME and European energy labelling rules provide benchmarks based on the Eco programme.
| Priority | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Size and capacity | Measure the width, height and depth; compare the number of place settings with the space needed for the connections. Bosch, for example, offers 45 and 60 cm freestanding models, as well as tabletop models. Check the dimensions of each specific model. | I want to wash my usual loads without installing an appliance that gets in the way or sticks out beyond its allotted space. |
| Water and electricity | According to ADEME, the energy label shows electricity use in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per cycle. Compare these figures across models, then consider how often you’ll use yours. | I do washing-up often enough that I want to compare running costs, rather than choosing based on the energy rating alone. |
| Cycle duration | Check the Eco programme duration on the energy label. European rules use this programme as the basis for comparison, so the figures don’t tell you how long a quick cycle takes or how much it uses. | If I need clean dishes again quickly, the cycle duration needs to work with my daily routine. |
| Noise | Compare the noise level in dB and the noise rating shown on the labels of the models you’re considering. Don’t assume noise levels based on width alone. | In an open-plan kitchen, I expect to run the dishwasher while people are using the living area. |
| Installation | Check the model’s instructions for its location, water inlet, drainage and electrical connection. For a built-in appliance, also check its installation diagram. | Before delivery, I want to know whether the appliance can be installed in the space I’ve chosen and connected to my existing setup. |
The rating doesn’t tell you everything about water use, Eco cycle duration, capacity or noise. So two appliances with a suitable capacity could still suit your schedule and kitchen differently.
Compare the labels for the exact models, including kWh per 100 cycles and litres per Eco cycle, using the same basis.
An appliance that fits the width of the space may still be too tall or deep. Beko’s installation instructions also distinguish between the space needed, the water inlet, drainage and electrical connection.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then check the instructions for the model you’re considering. If you’re unsure about your existing setup, get it assessed for suitability.
Noise levels vary between models and matter more if the dishwasher will run while people are using the living area.
Compare the dB levels and noise ratings on the labels of appliances that already meet your capacity and installation needs.
A slimline or tabletop appliance saves space, but its capacity still needs to suit the washing-up you build up between cycles.
Compare the actual dimensions and place settings of a 45 cm model and a tabletop model before settling on a size.
These brands offer a range of sizes and features to compare, though specifications vary by model.
Bosch’s French range includes 45 and 60 cm freestanding models, as well as compact tabletop appliances.
Beko’s French range includes freestanding models with different capacities, including one advertised as holding 15 place settings.
Miele offers 60 cm freestanding models, with features and noise figures that vary by model.
This selection on Joybuy includes freestanding models for 14 place settings and a tabletop appliance for six. Compare their size and capacity with your kitchen and washing-up routine. Choosing a built-in model for an existing space involves additional checks.
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Worth considering if your daily loads call for a capacity of 14 place settings. The product name lists seven cycles; check the dimensions, connections and Eco programme figures for this model.
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Check that this 60 cm model and its capacity suit your available space and washing-up loads. The product name lists an E energy rating; check the model’s label for its consumption figures and Eco programme duration.
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For regular loads, the product name lists 14 place settings, 41 dB and a C energy rating. Check these details against the model’s energy label. The description warns of a burn risk when the door opens automatically after a hot cycle. Keep children away and follow the instructions.
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This tabletop model could suit smaller loads if six place settings are enough for your household. Its name lists seven programmes, 47 dB and a D energy rating. Measure the space available and check the exact dimensions and connections before ordering.
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Its stated capacity could suit larger loads, but check its overall size first: the 60 cm width in the product name doesn’t match the dimensions in the description. Check the installation diagram and model label for noise levels and Eco programme duration.
Think about the loads you can build up regularly rather than a set number of people or meals. Compare this with the place settings listed for the model, then check whether its Eco programme duration works with your routine.
Compare capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise, as well as the energy rating. ADEME and European rules show consumption figures based on the reference programme; they don’t directly describe a quick cycle.
Measure the width, height and depth of the space, then check the model’s instructions for the water inlet, drainage and electrical connection. A stated width of 45 or 60 cm is no substitute for checking the exact model’s dimensions and installation instructions.
Follow the model’s instructions for cleaning the filter and, where applicable, using dishwasher salt and rinse aid. Whirlpool recommends cleaning the filter regularly; always follow the instructions for your appliance on how and how often to do this.
An old dishwasher should be disposed of through the waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) scheme. France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition outlines a collection and treatment system for household appliances. Ask the retailer, your local authority or a collection point which option is right for you.